Deep Vein Thrombosis

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot that forms in a deep vein, most often in the calf or thigh. It's dangerous because part of the clot can break off, travel to the lungs and cause a pulmonary embolism — which can be fatal.

What raises your risk

• Long immobility — bedrest, long flights or bus/train journeys, prolonged hospital stay.
• Surgery — especially orthopaedic, abdominal or cancer surgery.
• Pregnancy and the 6 weeks after delivery.
• Oral contraceptive pills and hormone therapy.
• Cancer and its treatment.
• Obesity, smoking and older age.
• Family history of clots or an inherited clotting disorder.

Symptoms of DVT

• Pain or aching in one calf or thigh (usually one-sided).
• Swelling in one leg.
• Warmth and redness over the area.
• Skin slightly discoloured or tight.

Red flags — dial 112

• Sudden shortness of breath.
• Sharp chest pain that's worse with a deep breath.
• Coughing up blood.
• Light-headedness or fainting.
• These suggest a pulmonary embolism.

Diagnosis and treatment

• A Doppler ultrasound of the leg is the usual first test.
• Blood thinners (anticoagulants) are the main treatment — usually for 3-6 months, sometimes longer.
• Compression stockings help reduce long-term leg swelling.
• For large or life-threatening clots, procedures to remove or dissolve the clot may be needed.

Prevention

• On long journeys, stand up and walk every 1-2 hours; flex your ankles often if seated.
• Stay hydrated.
• After surgery, follow walking instructions and any prescribed blood-thinning cover.
• See a Health Expert early if you have a painful, swollen calf — DVT is treatable, but only if found in time.